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No Bad Deed
Driving home one rainy night, Cassie Larkin sees a man and woman fighting on the side of the road. After calling 911, the veterinarian makes a split-second decision that will throw her sedate suburban life into chaos. Against all reason and advice, she gets out of her minivan and chases after the violent man, trying to help his victim. When Cassie physically tries to stop him, he suddenly turns on her and spits out an ominous threat: “Let her die, and I’ll let you live. And this will change her life.”
320 pages, Paperback
First published February 18, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,330 reviews
November 9, 2021
WOW! I need a minute! And please somebody get this Sauvignon Blanc bottle and bring me Jameson and cannoli platters! ( Jameson for me, cannoli for my mother in law because during my reading I bit my nails and my arms and guess I didn’t feel any pain! When I think this book gave me higher pain tolerance, I realized I was biting my mother in law’s arm during my reading who was really worried about my non-stop screaming! So yes, cannoli is my bribe. And also I gave her free pass for my freezer where the rats are ice skating because of boredom and emptiness!)
First we need an ovation for the author because she bend our minds, she shocked us, she surprised the hell of us, she entertained us and she made us jump at our sits!
She did a fantastic job! At her story gripped me from the first page, made me cancel my entire schedule and lie to my business partner I had a stomach flu so I stayed at home, I didn’t work, write, attend any conference calls and I didn’t cook, clean, do any chores (I actually never do them but I wanted to emphasize how this book took my all attention) so just kept reading and reading and of course at the end I screamed “holly sh**”! Well my neighbors get used to my reactions! They’d seen the worst (after watching Shaun of the Dead which is one of my all -time favorite movies, I took a big tour around neighborhood and screamed “Yesss” because I have been feeling sooo good!) This book gave me some near Simon Pegg’s euphoria effect!
You know what they say: The road to hell is paved in good intentions! Our story starts with our badass veterinary, mother of two children Cassie’s stopping her car as soon as she sees a man attacking a woman. Of course she calls 911. But it is not enough! She has guilt feelings about her college friend’s death. She told herself she needed to do something at that time but now she has a chance to clean her karma or making things so so so much worse because after she left her car and fought against the man to save the abused woman’s life: man told her he was going to come after her and her loved ones.
And after the incident, her husband who acts strange, taking calls from someone she doesn’t know and sends her cryptic messages that they need to talk, disappears into thin air. And guess what, she tracks his phone records and meets with his mistress. The very same woman she saved from the attack. (See what good intentions reward you with!) And she learns more about her husband’s secrets. Of course her family is chased by Carver Sweet (which is not so sweet, mostly bitter and rotten egg) she fought to save her husband’s mistress at the beginning of the story.
So where is unfaithful husband? Why Carver not so Sweet psychopath is after her? Why Cassie is a badass but also shows respect to the woman who gloats for sleeping with her husband? Who is watching her family? Are they in bigger danger than they could ever imagine?
Please keep reading! Nothing as it seems. This book killed my spider senses and made my mouth agape. So I am not gonna give any spoilers. Just read this book and impress from author’s evil genius mind. Get ready to the big twist you never see it coming at the end!!!
I’m giving 5 and half gazillion stars to this book because I gave so many entertaining thrillers to five stars but this book and the author’s creative writing exceeded my expectations.
CLAP!CLAP!CLAP!
By the way: I gave Cassie best leading character and Daryl best supporting character literature awards. I loved both of them so much.
Special thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow/Harper Collins Publishers for sharing one of the most anticipated and debut novel’s ARC COPY with me in exchange my honest review. And I congratulate Heather Chavez. Please keep writing those mind-bending stories. I had so much fun and gave villain laughs after reading this splendid story!
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First we need an ovation for the author because she bend our minds, she shocked us, she surprised the hell of us, she entertained us and she made us jump at our sits!
She did a fantastic job! At her story gripped me from the first page, made me cancel my entire schedule and lie to my business partner I had a stomach flu so I stayed at home, I didn’t work, write, attend any conference calls and I didn’t cook, clean, do any chores (I actually never do them but I wanted to emphasize how this book took my all attention) so just kept reading and reading and of course at the end I screamed “holly sh**”! Well my neighbors get used to my reactions! They’d seen the worst (after watching Shaun of the Dead which is one of my all -time favorite movies, I took a big tour around neighborhood and screamed “Yesss” because I have been feeling sooo good!) This book gave me some near Simon Pegg’s euphoria effect!
You know what they say: The road to hell is paved in good intentions! Our story starts with our badass veterinary, mother of two children Cassie’s stopping her car as soon as she sees a man attacking a woman. Of course she calls 911. But it is not enough! She has guilt feelings about her college friend’s death. She told herself she needed to do something at that time but now she has a chance to clean her karma or making things so so so much worse because after she left her car and fought against the man to save the abused woman’s life: man told her he was going to come after her and her loved ones.
And after the incident, her husband who acts strange, taking calls from someone she doesn’t know and sends her cryptic messages that they need to talk, disappears into thin air. And guess what, she tracks his phone records and meets with his mistress. The very same woman she saved from the attack. (See what good intentions reward you with!) And she learns more about her husband’s secrets. Of course her family is chased by Carver Sweet (which is not so sweet, mostly bitter and rotten egg) she fought to save her husband’s mistress at the beginning of the story.
So where is unfaithful husband? Why Carver not so Sweet psychopath is after her? Why Cassie is a badass but also shows respect to the woman who gloats for sleeping with her husband? Who is watching her family? Are they in bigger danger than they could ever imagine?
Please keep reading! Nothing as it seems. This book killed my spider senses and made my mouth agape. So I am not gonna give any spoilers. Just read this book and impress from author’s evil genius mind. Get ready to the big twist you never see it coming at the end!!!
I’m giving 5 and half gazillion stars to this book because I gave so many entertaining thrillers to five stars but this book and the author’s creative writing exceeded my expectations.
CLAP!CLAP!CLAP!
By the way: I gave Cassie best leading character and Daryl best supporting character literature awards. I loved both of them so much.
Special thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow/Harper Collins Publishers for sharing one of the most anticipated and debut novel’s ARC COPY with me in exchange my honest review. And I congratulate Heather Chavez. Please keep writing those mind-bending stories. I had so much fun and gave villain laughs after reading this splendid story!
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September 7, 2022
I'm giving this one 5 stars, if not solely for the fact that a book hasn't compelled me to finish so quickly in ages, then because it is a twisty, unpredictable thriller. It might be too wild for some folks, but for this little lady who was in a slight reading slump, it was just the prescription I needed. The less that you know going in, the better, but there's no spoiling anything by informing you that the chapters are short and gripping, the action and pacing is relentless, and that the content is somewhat disturbing. While unnerving thrillers might not be for every reader, I appreciate how the author chose to focus more on alluding to certain aspects, rather than just making this book an all out blood bath.
For those who regularly read my reviews, you probably are aware of how little I am surprised by the "twists" in thrillers today. Here, I was completely fooled. There are plenty of clues dropped throughout, but they don't come together until the distinct moment that I went "OH SNAP" and everything clicked. Heather Chavez has woven together the ultimate suspenseful tale that is pure entertainment, and I will be waiting anxiously for her next novel. Highly recommended for all the readers who need a page turner that will keep them up late into the night.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my finished copy.
For those who regularly read my reviews, you probably are aware of how little I am surprised by the "twists" in thrillers today. Here, I was completely fooled. There are plenty of clues dropped throughout, but they don't come together until the distinct moment that I went "OH SNAP" and everything clicked. Heather Chavez has woven together the ultimate suspenseful tale that is pure entertainment, and I will be waiting anxiously for her next novel. Highly recommended for all the readers who need a page turner that will keep them up late into the night.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my finished copy.
October 17, 2024
No Bad Deed is a wild ride. This one left my head spinning!
On her way home from work, Cassie Larkin sees what she assumes to be a domestic conflict occurring on the side of the road.
She stops her car and calls 911. Although the operator tells her to remain in her vehicle, Cassie cannot sit idly by while a woman gets assaulted, or worse.
As she attempts to break up the altercation, the man involved tells Cassie in no uncertain terms, if she lets him kill this woman, he will let her live. Basically, this woman's life for hers.
Eventually, in the face of Cassie's determination, the man flees, but unfortunately he does so in her van. Now he has her handbag, complete with identification, family photos, address, and house keys.
Without putting too fine a point on it, this is basically my worse nightmare come to the page.
Reading this opening scene, I was so prepared to throw this book into the freezer. It's like Heather Chavez knew exactly what to write to freak me the heck out, and I cherish that!
When Cassie's husband disappears the next night, on Halloween, while out trick-or-treating with their 6-year old daughter, her instincts tell her something is terribly wrong. It cannot be a coincidence.
After she reports it, the cops are fairly nonchalant about the whole affair. They seem to believe this is just a case of a man leaving his family. Cassie knows better, however, and begins her own investigation.
While it did surprise me that the cops didn't take his disappearance more seriously, especially considering they knew the crazy, violent guy who stole her vehicle had her keys and information, I did love Cassie getting involved and looking into his disappearance herself.
Amateur sleuthing is one of my favorite tropes in a Thriller and I think Chavez nailed it here.
This story took so many crazy turns, there was no way to predict what was going to happen next.
As secrets begin to come out about her husband, and from Cassie's own dark past, you discover perhaps there is no coincidence in life after all.
The final scenes of this were beyond wild. You do need to suspend belief for a bit and just sit back and enjoy the ride.
I was creeped out by this story pretty much the entire time and it was so much fun. I cannot wait to read more from Chavez!
Thank you so much to the publisher, William Morrow, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I truly appreciate it!
On her way home from work, Cassie Larkin sees what she assumes to be a domestic conflict occurring on the side of the road.
She stops her car and calls 911. Although the operator tells her to remain in her vehicle, Cassie cannot sit idly by while a woman gets assaulted, or worse.
As she attempts to break up the altercation, the man involved tells Cassie in no uncertain terms, if she lets him kill this woman, he will let her live. Basically, this woman's life for hers.
Eventually, in the face of Cassie's determination, the man flees, but unfortunately he does so in her van. Now he has her handbag, complete with identification, family photos, address, and house keys.
Without putting too fine a point on it, this is basically my worse nightmare come to the page.
Reading this opening scene, I was so prepared to throw this book into the freezer. It's like Heather Chavez knew exactly what to write to freak me the heck out, and I cherish that!
When Cassie's husband disappears the next night, on Halloween, while out trick-or-treating with their 6-year old daughter, her instincts tell her something is terribly wrong. It cannot be a coincidence.
After she reports it, the cops are fairly nonchalant about the whole affair. They seem to believe this is just a case of a man leaving his family. Cassie knows better, however, and begins her own investigation.
While it did surprise me that the cops didn't take his disappearance more seriously, especially considering they knew the crazy, violent guy who stole her vehicle had her keys and information, I did love Cassie getting involved and looking into his disappearance herself.
Amateur sleuthing is one of my favorite tropes in a Thriller and I think Chavez nailed it here.
This story took so many crazy turns, there was no way to predict what was going to happen next.
As secrets begin to come out about her husband, and from Cassie's own dark past, you discover perhaps there is no coincidence in life after all.
The final scenes of this were beyond wild. You do need to suspend belief for a bit and just sit back and enjoy the ride.
I was creeped out by this story pretty much the entire time and it was so much fun. I cannot wait to read more from Chavez!
Thank you so much to the publisher, William Morrow, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I truly appreciate it!
February 5, 2020
Heather Chavez's psychological thriller has the kind of twists that stray so much into far fetched territory for this reader but here's the thing, it was a totally compulsive read that had me turning the pages as fast as I could. Cassie Larkin is a veterinarian, happily married to teacher Sam, although their ability to connect with each other has been strained with their chaotic family and work lives, what with having two children, son Leo and young daughter, Audrey, keeping them busy. On one dark and rainy night, Cassie is driving home when she sees a woman being attacked by a man at the roadside, she calls the police. However, she just cannot stop herself getting out of her minivan to try and save the woman, against all good sense and reason. She is going to live to regret her actions as she manages to ensure the woman lives but not before the man turns to her, telling her to let the woman die and he will let her live.
Whilst she examines the victim, the man takes her van, the contents of which ensures that he has her name, where she lives, and that she has children. This is a case that goes to prove no good deed goes unpunished as Cassie's entire life spins out of control as her family faces dangers she could never have foreseen. She is interviewed by the police, with Detective Ray Rico taking her statement, and showing her pictures of potential men that could have been the perpetrator. She identifies the attacker, a known criminal named Carver Sweet. Cassie is warned to be careful but the police seem sure that he will not get anywhere near her. She is less certain of this, and the following night, Sam takes their 6 year old Audrey trick or treating on Halloween. Sam never returns, leaving Audrey behind with some women. Is Sam's disappearance anything to do with Cassie's involvement in the roadside attack?
Chavez excels in writing a thriller that is fast paced, well plotted with twist following twist, and where nothing and no-one can be relied on. She gives a central protagonist, Cassie, that you cannot but help feel for as her life derails in spectacular fashion. As I said at the beginning, you are going to have suspend disbelief big time, and just go on the entertaining if dark and intense thrill ride for the addictive storytelling. Many thanks to Headline for an ARC.
Whilst she examines the victim, the man takes her van, the contents of which ensures that he has her name, where she lives, and that she has children. This is a case that goes to prove no good deed goes unpunished as Cassie's entire life spins out of control as her family faces dangers she could never have foreseen. She is interviewed by the police, with Detective Ray Rico taking her statement, and showing her pictures of potential men that could have been the perpetrator. She identifies the attacker, a known criminal named Carver Sweet. Cassie is warned to be careful but the police seem sure that he will not get anywhere near her. She is less certain of this, and the following night, Sam takes their 6 year old Audrey trick or treating on Halloween. Sam never returns, leaving Audrey behind with some women. Is Sam's disappearance anything to do with Cassie's involvement in the roadside attack?
Chavez excels in writing a thriller that is fast paced, well plotted with twist following twist, and where nothing and no-one can be relied on. She gives a central protagonist, Cassie, that you cannot but help feel for as her life derails in spectacular fashion. As I said at the beginning, you are going to have suspend disbelief big time, and just go on the entertaining if dark and intense thrill ride for the addictive storytelling. Many thanks to Headline for an ARC.
February 4, 2020
NO BAD DEED by Heather Chavez is an action packed thriller. The story mainly takes place in Santa Rosa, California. The protagonist, Cassie Larkin is on her way home from work when she sees a man and woman fighting on the side of the road. After calling 911, Cassie decides to try to help the woman. The attacker takes off in Cassie’s vehicle with her purse so he now knows who she is and where she lives. This leads to a very twisted and suspenseful few days for Cassie and her family and friends.
Cassie is definitely a compelling character that a reader can root for. She had very distinct flaws and virtues. But her goals were clear and her motivations seemed believable, with well-drawn and appropriate emotions. The secondary characters were less developed but still enhanced the story. There are several themes explored in the book including family, friendship, murder, child abuse, marriage fidelity, domestic violence and much more.
The prose was well-written, engrossing, absorbing, and vividly descriptive. The plot was suspenseful, clever, shocking, intense and riveting. The ending was dramatic and made me pause, reflect, and contemplate. Overall, I was drawn into the book with the first paragraph and I was fully engaged in this tangled crime thriller.
This was a fantastic debut novel by an author I hope releases another book soon. If you like thrillers with lots of twists, turns and action, you may enjoy this book as much as I did.
Thanks to HarperCollins Publishers – William Morrow and Heather Chavez for an ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Cassie is definitely a compelling character that a reader can root for. She had very distinct flaws and virtues. But her goals were clear and her motivations seemed believable, with well-drawn and appropriate emotions. The secondary characters were less developed but still enhanced the story. There are several themes explored in the book including family, friendship, murder, child abuse, marriage fidelity, domestic violence and much more.
The prose was well-written, engrossing, absorbing, and vividly descriptive. The plot was suspenseful, clever, shocking, intense and riveting. The ending was dramatic and made me pause, reflect, and contemplate. Overall, I was drawn into the book with the first paragraph and I was fully engaged in this tangled crime thriller.
This was a fantastic debut novel by an author I hope releases another book soon. If you like thrillers with lots of twists, turns and action, you may enjoy this book as much as I did.
Thanks to HarperCollins Publishers – William Morrow and Heather Chavez for an ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
February 11, 2020
Twists and turns, reveals and an out of left field reveal (which I normally do not care for- but it worked in this book), kept me turning the pages to determine just what the heck was going on, going down, who is telling the truth, who is the bad guy and well.......read this for yourself! Whew!
This is a fast-paced thriller in which Veterinarian Cassie Larkin sees a man and woman arguing by the side of the road. After calling 911 to report the dispute, she makes the very bad decision - one that she will regret later - to get out of the car and intervene. When the huge hulking man turns on her after she tries to attack him, he snarls at her “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
Not one to take anyone's advice, she puts her training to use and saves the woman's life, finds her car and purse stolen by the known criminal and within 24 hours her husband is missing. That's just the icing on the cake folks.
This is a fast-paced thriller that leaps off the pages. The twist and turns keep happening. As Cassie tries to locate her husband, she learns some interesting things about her husband. Facts that have her wondering if his disappearance was voluntarily or was it related to the threat made to her the previous day? He has been distant lately, but why? Is there something wrong? Something he isn't telling her perhaps. Or is she reading too much into his disappearance?
So, suspend some disbelief, curl up in your favorite reading spot, and be prepared to spend some time with this fast paced, thrill ride of a book. Who is telling the truth? Who is reliable? Is anyone reliable in this book? One thing is certain - not everything is exactly as it seems.
My super sleuthing skills did not help me at all with figuring out this book. That was a plus! Just when I thought I had things figured out, Chavez, changes things up, threw in some more twists and left me scratching my head while turning those pages.
Riveting, captivating, entertaining and dark.
Plus, ugh...Jerusalem beetles. Am I the only one who had no idea what they were? GROSS. I'm with you Cassie, gross, gross, gross.
Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers -William Morrow and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a fast-paced thriller in which Veterinarian Cassie Larkin sees a man and woman arguing by the side of the road. After calling 911 to report the dispute, she makes the very bad decision - one that she will regret later - to get out of the car and intervene. When the huge hulking man turns on her after she tries to attack him, he snarls at her “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
Not one to take anyone's advice, she puts her training to use and saves the woman's life, finds her car and purse stolen by the known criminal and within 24 hours her husband is missing. That's just the icing on the cake folks.
This is a fast-paced thriller that leaps off the pages. The twist and turns keep happening. As Cassie tries to locate her husband, she learns some interesting things about her husband. Facts that have her wondering if his disappearance was voluntarily or was it related to the threat made to her the previous day? He has been distant lately, but why? Is there something wrong? Something he isn't telling her perhaps. Or is she reading too much into his disappearance?
So, suspend some disbelief, curl up in your favorite reading spot, and be prepared to spend some time with this fast paced, thrill ride of a book. Who is telling the truth? Who is reliable? Is anyone reliable in this book? One thing is certain - not everything is exactly as it seems.
My super sleuthing skills did not help me at all with figuring out this book. That was a plus! Just when I thought I had things figured out, Chavez, changes things up, threw in some more twists and left me scratching my head while turning those pages.
Riveting, captivating, entertaining and dark.
Plus, ugh...Jerusalem beetles. Am I the only one who had no idea what they were? GROSS. I'm with you Cassie, gross, gross, gross.
Thank you to HarperCollins Publishers -William Morrow and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 29, 2020
This was a fun, fast paced thriller.
Until it wasn't. Sigh.
Cassie Larkin is driving home one night when she witnesses a man and woman fighting on the side of the road. When the man pushes the woman over the embankment Cassie decides to intervene. The man is obviously not thrilled with having witnesses and leaves her with this ominous message: “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
The next day, Halloween, Cassie's husband has decided to take their daughter Audrey trick or treating because Cassie is running late as usual. She is feeling terrible that she has once again chosen work over family so she calls Sam to meet up in the neighborhood but he assures her that they will be home in a half hour tops. They never arrive. Cassie scours the neighborhood and manages to find her daughter but her husband is no where to be found. What happened to Sam?
This book was rolling right along and I was enjoying it until about the 75% mark. This became so convoluted and outlandish that it became a chore to suspend disbelief anymore. And tedious. So very tedious. I skimmed the last 25% and turned the final page with a roll of the eyes. I think with some fine tuning this could have been better. 3 stars!
Thank you to Edelweiss and William Morrow for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Until it wasn't. Sigh.
Cassie Larkin is driving home one night when she witnesses a man and woman fighting on the side of the road. When the man pushes the woman over the embankment Cassie decides to intervene. The man is obviously not thrilled with having witnesses and leaves her with this ominous message: “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
The next day, Halloween, Cassie's husband has decided to take their daughter Audrey trick or treating because Cassie is running late as usual. She is feeling terrible that she has once again chosen work over family so she calls Sam to meet up in the neighborhood but he assures her that they will be home in a half hour tops. They never arrive. Cassie scours the neighborhood and manages to find her daughter but her husband is no where to be found. What happened to Sam?
This book was rolling right along and I was enjoying it until about the 75% mark. This became so convoluted and outlandish that it became a chore to suspend disbelief anymore. And tedious. So very tedious. I skimmed the last 25% and turned the final page with a roll of the eyes. I think with some fine tuning this could have been better. 3 stars!
Thank you to Edelweiss and William Morrow for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2020
3.5*
This book rocketed into a breathtaking beginning! As Cassie makes the drive home from work late night, she witnesses a woman being assaulted on the side of the road!
Without hesitation she pulls her minivan over and leaps out to help! Only to come face to face with a very imposing and dangerous man who threatens her own family unless she backs off.
Shortly after the bizarre encounter, Cassie’s husband mysteriously vanishes while trick or treating with their young daughter. It seems far stretch to believe this has any connection to that man who threatened her just mere days ago. There must be another reason behind this disappearance. Right?
Now, I’m a good sport about suspending my believability when I read thrillers. It pretty much comes with the territory if you hope to get the most out of them. After all, it is fiction! But this book just went a bit too far off the road for me! Granted, we all want twists in our thrillers! But too many and you risk spoiling an otherwise interesting story-line.
This is a fast and furious read that I think most thriller lovers will devour! I was just left a bit light-headed from the ride.
A buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to Edelweiss and William Morrow for an ARC to read and review.
This book rocketed into a breathtaking beginning! As Cassie makes the drive home from work late night, she witnesses a woman being assaulted on the side of the road!
Without hesitation she pulls her minivan over and leaps out to help! Only to come face to face with a very imposing and dangerous man who threatens her own family unless she backs off.
Shortly after the bizarre encounter, Cassie’s husband mysteriously vanishes while trick or treating with their young daughter. It seems far stretch to believe this has any connection to that man who threatened her just mere days ago. There must be another reason behind this disappearance. Right?
Now, I’m a good sport about suspending my believability when I read thrillers. It pretty much comes with the territory if you hope to get the most out of them. After all, it is fiction! But this book just went a bit too far off the road for me! Granted, we all want twists in our thrillers! But too many and you risk spoiling an otherwise interesting story-line.
This is a fast and furious read that I think most thriller lovers will devour! I was just left a bit light-headed from the ride.
A buddy read with Susanne!
Thank you to Edelweiss and William Morrow for an ARC to read and review.
February 6, 2020
Add this book to the list of books that I shake my head after finishing and wonder if I read the same book, as I have read many 5 stars reviews for this one, but for me, it didn't come anywhere close to that mark!
The premise was intriguing, and I thought it started out strong with veterinarian Cassie, driving alone on a rainy night, when she suddenly spots a man attacking a woman on the side of the road. Literally, that's where it all went downhill for me though. Cassie stops and calls 911, but instead of waiting for the police to get there, she leaves the car running and gets out and confronts the man, who then makes a veiled threat to Cassie and proceeds to steal her car with her purse and wallet with all of her personal information inside. The next night, while trick-or-treating with their young daughter, Cassie’s husband, high school teacher Sam, ditches their daughter with some random lady he recognizes from their daughter's school and disappears - but not completely - as he keeps sending her strange texts. Come to find out, teacher Sam, who just so happens to teach at the same high school as their 15 year-old son, was suspended weeks earlier for suggestions of an inappropriate relationship with a student; but Cassie has no clue about it and thinks Sam has been out with the flu (really?!). Enter bumbling Detective Rico who investigates Sam's disappearance and follows a trail that suggests either Cassie or her 15-year-old son is involved in Sam’s disappearance. Somehow though, Cassie always seems to be a step ahead of Detective Rico and of course, puts all the pieces together on her own.
I won't even get into all of the weird rabbit trails into which this book digresses - affairs, suggestions of pedophilia, abused children, kidnapped children, an estranged dad who lives thousands of miles away but is still an oddly integral piece of the puzzle - I could go on and on. The plot is beyond far-fetched and is so disjointed, it made my head hurt. Chavez tries to throw in every twist imaginable and frankly, none of them worked for me.
While I generally love a book that I can't figure out the ending, this storyline is just too implausible for ANYONE to figure out. It's a head-shaking, shoulder-shrugging, 2 stars for me.
The premise was intriguing, and I thought it started out strong with veterinarian Cassie, driving alone on a rainy night, when she suddenly spots a man attacking a woman on the side of the road. Literally, that's where it all went downhill for me though. Cassie stops and calls 911, but instead of waiting for the police to get there, she leaves the car running and gets out and confronts the man, who then makes a veiled threat to Cassie and proceeds to steal her car with her purse and wallet with all of her personal information inside. The next night, while trick-or-treating with their young daughter, Cassie’s husband, high school teacher Sam, ditches their daughter with some random lady he recognizes from their daughter's school and disappears - but not completely - as he keeps sending her strange texts. Come to find out, teacher Sam, who just so happens to teach at the same high school as their 15 year-old son, was suspended weeks earlier for suggestions of an inappropriate relationship with a student; but Cassie has no clue about it and thinks Sam has been out with the flu (really?!). Enter bumbling Detective Rico who investigates Sam's disappearance and follows a trail that suggests either Cassie or her 15-year-old son is involved in Sam’s disappearance. Somehow though, Cassie always seems to be a step ahead of Detective Rico and of course, puts all the pieces together on her own.
I won't even get into all of the weird rabbit trails into which this book digresses - affairs, suggestions of pedophilia, abused children, kidnapped children, an estranged dad who lives thousands of miles away but is still an oddly integral piece of the puzzle - I could go on and on. The plot is beyond far-fetched and is so disjointed, it made my head hurt. Chavez tries to throw in every twist imaginable and frankly, none of them worked for me.
While I generally love a book that I can't figure out the ending, this storyline is just too implausible for ANYONE to figure out. It's a head-shaking, shoulder-shrugging, 2 stars for me.
April 2, 2020
This is one of those twisty adrenaline-filled thrillers that once you start you literally can't stop. What an impressive debut.
Pacing: ★★★★★
Villain(s)/Reveal(s): ★★★★
Main character: ★★★★★
If you witnessed a violent moment between a man and woman at the side of the road while in your car, what would you do? Would you get out? Would you call the police?
Cassie Larkin gets out of her car. She's coming home late from her shift at the vet office when she sees a battered woman being chased by a man with a knife on the side of a deserted highway. After a tense confrontation, the attacker tells Cassie something strange.
"Your life is a mess. You just don't know it yet. Let her die, and I'll let you live."
Then he flees the scene in Cassie's van—which contains her wallet, ID, and personal information. Cassie doesn't abandon the victim, and the woman survives. But now the clock is ticking, and Cassie knows that a potential killer knows her address. Knows about her husband. Knows about her kids.
The very next day, her husband is taken.
What follows is one of the most intense, pacing-driven thrillers that I have read in a long time. Cassie's propulsive drive to find her husband and solve the mystery of the killer's interest in her and her family was so entertaining, so nerve-wracking, and filled with all of the hard decisions that make you stop and check yourself: would I do that? would I make that jump? would I make that call? would I trust in the police, or would I do it myself?
Cassie was the main reason that I loved this story. She is a woman full of flaws and filled with a sense of unworthiness when it comes to her husband and her kids. With that cocktail blend of past guilt and fierce maternal love, her focus on the trail of the murderer goes from 0 to 100 real fast. (I was so here for it). In addition to her drive to find the truth, the reveals as to why Cassie, and why her family, become increasingly clear. In case you're wondering whether this falls closer to A-B-C thriller or twisted mystery, I'll say that the reveals and mystery were definitely a main portion of the story, and boy was I shocked by that ending. It's crazy, but it fits the story. Loved it.
Can't wait for Heather Chavez's next thriller.
Thank you to William Morrow for an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram
Pacing: ★★★★★
Villain(s)/Reveal(s): ★★★★
Main character: ★★★★★
If you witnessed a violent moment between a man and woman at the side of the road while in your car, what would you do? Would you get out? Would you call the police?
Cassie Larkin gets out of her car. She's coming home late from her shift at the vet office when she sees a battered woman being chased by a man with a knife on the side of a deserted highway. After a tense confrontation, the attacker tells Cassie something strange.
"Your life is a mess. You just don't know it yet. Let her die, and I'll let you live."
Then he flees the scene in Cassie's van—which contains her wallet, ID, and personal information. Cassie doesn't abandon the victim, and the woman survives. But now the clock is ticking, and Cassie knows that a potential killer knows her address. Knows about her husband. Knows about her kids.
The very next day, her husband is taken.
What follows is one of the most intense, pacing-driven thrillers that I have read in a long time. Cassie's propulsive drive to find her husband and solve the mystery of the killer's interest in her and her family was so entertaining, so nerve-wracking, and filled with all of the hard decisions that make you stop and check yourself: would I do that? would I make that jump? would I make that call? would I trust in the police, or would I do it myself?
Cassie was the main reason that I loved this story. She is a woman full of flaws and filled with a sense of unworthiness when it comes to her husband and her kids. With that cocktail blend of past guilt and fierce maternal love, her focus on the trail of the murderer goes from 0 to 100 real fast. (I was so here for it). In addition to her drive to find the truth, the reveals as to why Cassie, and why her family, become increasingly clear. In case you're wondering whether this falls closer to A-B-C thriller or twisted mystery, I'll say that the reveals and mystery were definitely a main portion of the story, and boy was I shocked by that ending. It's crazy, but it fits the story. Loved it.
Can't wait for Heather Chavez's next thriller.
Thank you to William Morrow for an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram
February 2, 2020
"What? Oh, hell no! Hold up. Huh? Oh, okay."
Any Impractical Jokers fans here in Goodreads land? Because this infamous little quote from the show sums up exactly how I felt while reading this book.
It started off with a bang, and I was totally in it, thinking to myself, "Whaaat? That's crazy!"
Then it slowed down and I got really frustrated with our protagonist, Cassie. She was blindly running around, impeding the police investigation, and generally being all-around annoying. At one point, she did something really stupid and I was all, "Oh, HELL no!" What could she possibly be thinking?
Then the story got a little convoluted, and all I could think was, "Hold up." I needed to digest the information.
The final 25% of the novel was less than inspired. There were unanswered questions, plot holes galore, and a little too much suspension of belief required. And yep...you guessed it. I said to myself, "HUH?"
Finally, the final page. I sighed because I was a little underwhelmed, but a few things had become clear in the interim so it was totally, "Ohhh...okay."
Bottom line, I'd say this was pretty good for a debut novel. The plot was sound, and with a bit of tweaking, it would have been a decent novel. As it stands, I'm giving it 2.5 impractical stars.
**Many thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
Any Impractical Jokers fans here in Goodreads land? Because this infamous little quote from the show sums up exactly how I felt while reading this book.
It started off with a bang, and I was totally in it, thinking to myself, "Whaaat? That's crazy!"
Then it slowed down and I got really frustrated with our protagonist, Cassie. She was blindly running around, impeding the police investigation, and generally being all-around annoying. At one point, she did something really stupid and I was all, "Oh, HELL no!" What could she possibly be thinking?
Then the story got a little convoluted, and all I could think was, "Hold up." I needed to digest the information.
The final 25% of the novel was less than inspired. There were unanswered questions, plot holes galore, and a little too much suspension of belief required. And yep...you guessed it. I said to myself, "HUH?"
Finally, the final page. I sighed because I was a little underwhelmed, but a few things had become clear in the interim so it was totally, "Ohhh...okay."
Bottom line, I'd say this was pretty good for a debut novel. The plot was sound, and with a bit of tweaking, it would have been a decent novel. As it stands, I'm giving it 2.5 impractical stars.
**Many thanks to the publisher for my review copy.
April 18, 2020
3.75 Stars
Eye Popping and Jaw Dropping!
“No Bad Deed” started out so wild that I was racing to read as quickly as possible. I simply could not wait to find out what craziness awaited me! Thank goodness I was rewarded for it. The punches never stopped coming!
If only my eyes didn’t start to roll just a tad!
This reader is not good at suspending disbelief (as you all know) and unfortunately as this book took off to its crazy conclusion, I had to do exactly that and my bubble burst. Wah wah.
Thankfully however, most of this novel was highly entertaining and gave me heart palpitations. The fact that this novel is Ms. Chavez’s debut blows me away and I look forward to seeing what she comes out with next.
Another buddy read with Kaceey.
Published on Goodreads on 4.18.20.
Eye Popping and Jaw Dropping!
“No Bad Deed” started out so wild that I was racing to read as quickly as possible. I simply could not wait to find out what craziness awaited me! Thank goodness I was rewarded for it. The punches never stopped coming!
If only my eyes didn’t start to roll just a tad!
This reader is not good at suspending disbelief (as you all know) and unfortunately as this book took off to its crazy conclusion, I had to do exactly that and my bubble burst. Wah wah.
Thankfully however, most of this novel was highly entertaining and gave me heart palpitations. The fact that this novel is Ms. Chavez’s debut blows me away and I look forward to seeing what she comes out with next.
Another buddy read with Kaceey.
Published on Goodreads on 4.18.20.
June 24, 2020
Boy howdy. You try to do the right thing and help a stranger whose life is in danger, and what do you get for your trouble? Nothing but heartache, that's what. Cassie is about to find out the hard way. The opening was hair raising, the pacing was great, and I was ready to tear through this debut novel. Unfortunately, the whole thing came clean off the skids about 3/4 of the way through. I honestly thought I had put my bookmark in the wrong place. No stone was left untouched, no kitchen sink stayed put, and my eyeballs were spinning like whirlygigs.
Fiction is fiction, of course, we all know that. Even more apt, a book can't possibly appeal to every reader. This novel seems to be taking off nicely with plenty of higher ratings. The author displayed some clever and humorous word play that I enjoyed.
Fiction is fiction, of course, we all know that. Even more apt, a book can't possibly appeal to every reader. This novel seems to be taking off nicely with plenty of higher ratings. The author displayed some clever and humorous word play that I enjoyed.
August 15, 2021
“Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez begins with Cassie Larkin driving home one night and coming across a horrific crime taking place. Cassie of course calls the police but she can’t stop herself from trying to do more. As Cassie jumps out to help save a women from a sadistic man attacking her he gives her the ultimatum of saving the woman or saving herself.
Now as Cassie was playing hero our attacker steals Cassie’s vehicle so now he knows just where Cassie lives. After talking to the police they try to assure Cassie that she will be perfectly fine, they know who did the crime. However, the next day Cassie’s husband disappears while he is out with their young daughter. How can Cassie not think the two events are not connected??
No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez is a twisty thriller read that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There’s nothing like a story that feels like it’s putting you through the wringer right along with the protagonist in the book. I would even call this one thought provoking as it all starts with someone doing what she thinks is the right thing in saving someone’s life so you can’t help but think what would you do had it been you. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough after beginning this story so I’d definitely be interested in reading more from this author in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez begins with Cassie Larkin driving home one night and coming across a horrific crime taking place. Cassie of course calls the police but she can’t stop herself from trying to do more. As Cassie jumps out to help save a women from a sadistic man attacking her he gives her the ultimatum of saving the woman or saving herself.
Now as Cassie was playing hero our attacker steals Cassie’s vehicle so now he knows just where Cassie lives. After talking to the police they try to assure Cassie that she will be perfectly fine, they know who did the crime. However, the next day Cassie’s husband disappears while he is out with their young daughter. How can Cassie not think the two events are not connected??
No Bad Deed by Heather Chavez is a twisty thriller read that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. There’s nothing like a story that feels like it’s putting you through the wringer right along with the protagonist in the book. I would even call this one thought provoking as it all starts with someone doing what she thinks is the right thing in saving someone’s life so you can’t help but think what would you do had it been you. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough after beginning this story so I’d definitely be interested in reading more from this author in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
March 30, 2020
Cassie Larkin is a veterinarian on her way home after a long day at the clinic. It’s foul weather with gray skies and drizzle but clear enough for her to see a man and a woman fighting on the roadside. She calls 911 but then does something the operator begged her not to do: leaves her car and confronts the knife-wielding man before he delivers the killing strike to his female victim. When he hears the approaching sirens, he takes off but not before uttering some strange statements to Cassie and then absconds with her car, keys and purse. The next night is Halloween and Cassie’s husband Sam takes their 6-year old daughter Audrey out for treats. When they don’t return, she goes out searching for them and finds her daughter with strangers and no sign of her husband. From this point forward, Cassie’s life and her family’s are changed forever.
From the moment Cassie got out of that car, nothing in this story was predictable, including the decisions she makes along the way. She’s thrown curves at every juncture and most of the time she moves in expected directions and at others she makes choices that I found curious. Cassie’s entire life is turned upside down, including her marriage, relationship with her children and her job. She’s suddenly in a situation where she’s forced to be an amateur detective and protect herself and family. It’s difficult to know who to trust and to foresee what’s around the next corner. As a reader, I was as off balance as Cassie as I tried to navigate the whiplash turns.
It’s tough to believe that this is a debut novel but after researching the author, it’s clear that her early writing ventures benefited her culminating in this story. While I had some eye-rolling moments requiring some serious suspension of beliefs, for the most part this book was well plotted and characterized. The pace was really fast and I whipped through the story. The narrator seem to really get Cassie as a character, almost as if she was truly feeling what she was experiencing emotionally throughout. I liked that she didn’t try to come up with false sounding male voices, just a little lower pitch or dialect. It was a solid, well executed performance. And, I’ll definitely be reading whatever the author chooses to write next.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thank you to HarperAudio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
From the moment Cassie got out of that car, nothing in this story was predictable, including the decisions she makes along the way. She’s thrown curves at every juncture and most of the time she moves in expected directions and at others she makes choices that I found curious. Cassie’s entire life is turned upside down, including her marriage, relationship with her children and her job. She’s suddenly in a situation where she’s forced to be an amateur detective and protect herself and family. It’s difficult to know who to trust and to foresee what’s around the next corner. As a reader, I was as off balance as Cassie as I tried to navigate the whiplash turns.
It’s tough to believe that this is a debut novel but after researching the author, it’s clear that her early writing ventures benefited her culminating in this story. While I had some eye-rolling moments requiring some serious suspension of beliefs, for the most part this book was well plotted and characterized. The pace was really fast and I whipped through the story. The narrator seem to really get Cassie as a character, almost as if she was truly feeling what she was experiencing emotionally throughout. I liked that she didn’t try to come up with false sounding male voices, just a little lower pitch or dialect. It was a solid, well executed performance. And, I’ll definitely be reading whatever the author chooses to write next.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thank you to HarperAudio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
January 24, 2020
If you are looking for a solid, fast-paced thriller, you might want to check this one out. It's one of those books that is fun to read because you aren't entirely sure what's going to happen next and so you just sit back and enjoy the show. My only real criticism is it gets a tad bit confusing near the end but overall this was a good read.
Driving home one night, veterinarian Cassie Larkin sees a woman and man fighting on the side of the road. She calls 911, but against better judgment, she gets out of the car hoping she can stop the violent man from attacking the woman. The man escapes before the police arrive and steals Cassie's car which of course has her purse with identifying information. Great, now he knows where she lives. The next day Cassie's husband disappears while trick-or-treating with their daughter. What is going on and is it connected to that man who was attacking the woman? Cassie is going to have to dig for the truth, but is she going to like what she finds out? Oh and because this is a thriller there is a high probability her life is in danger. Buckle up folks for this crazy ride!
This is an action packed novel and that is by far the strength as it was one thing after another to hold your interest. While I wouldn't say Cassie is my favorite lead character of all time, I at least felt invested enough in wanting to find out what was going to happen to her and her family.
One reason this wasn't a 5 star read for me is there were many characters in this book and eventually it became difficult to keep track of everyone. When you are near the end of a book and you are confused about who is who in regards to some of the characters, that's not a good thing. Also, at times while reading I did want to question whether or not something was entirely realistic. However, this book is meant to be more of a fun, popcorn eating type thriller so I figured it was best to just go with the flow and not analyze it to death.
Overall, I recommend this book if you are looking for a decent thriller that explores the subject of what a person might be willing to do in order to protect their family.
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins for providing me with an advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
Driving home one night, veterinarian Cassie Larkin sees a woman and man fighting on the side of the road. She calls 911, but against better judgment, she gets out of the car hoping she can stop the violent man from attacking the woman. The man escapes before the police arrive and steals Cassie's car which of course has her purse with identifying information. Great, now he knows where she lives. The next day Cassie's husband disappears while trick-or-treating with their daughter. What is going on and is it connected to that man who was attacking the woman? Cassie is going to have to dig for the truth, but is she going to like what she finds out? Oh and because this is a thriller there is a high probability her life is in danger. Buckle up folks for this crazy ride!
This is an action packed novel and that is by far the strength as it was one thing after another to hold your interest. While I wouldn't say Cassie is my favorite lead character of all time, I at least felt invested enough in wanting to find out what was going to happen to her and her family.
One reason this wasn't a 5 star read for me is there were many characters in this book and eventually it became difficult to keep track of everyone. When you are near the end of a book and you are confused about who is who in regards to some of the characters, that's not a good thing. Also, at times while reading I did want to question whether or not something was entirely realistic. However, this book is meant to be more of a fun, popcorn eating type thriller so I figured it was best to just go with the flow and not analyze it to death.
Overall, I recommend this book if you are looking for a decent thriller that explores the subject of what a person might be willing to do in order to protect their family.
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins for providing me with an advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 13, 2020
Cassie is driving home from her veterinary clinic when she spots a man assaulting woman. She dials 911, but fearing for the woman's life, she makes the I'll fated decision to step in. Before escaping with Cassie's van, keys, and purse, he tells Cassie he'll let her live if she let's the woman die. The next night while trick or treating with their daughter, Cassie's husband Sam disappears.
This sets off a twist filled psychological thriller that will leave you breathless. The central characters are well developed, considering there are a lot of players in this story. The plot is well put together, though there is definitely some suspension of belief on the reader's part in order to get through the book. Overall, this is a fantastic debut novel that I had a hard time putting down. I highly recommend!
I would like to thank Netgalley, author Heather Chavez, publishers William Morrow, and HarperCollins for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This sets off a twist filled psychological thriller that will leave you breathless. The central characters are well developed, considering there are a lot of players in this story. The plot is well put together, though there is definitely some suspension of belief on the reader's part in order to get through the book. Overall, this is a fantastic debut novel that I had a hard time putting down. I highly recommend!
I would like to thank Netgalley, author Heather Chavez, publishers William Morrow, and HarperCollins for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 24, 2020
What a ride!!! This book starts with a bang and takes off at breakneck speed until the very final page. When you start it, just make sure you clear your schedule for the next 24 hours because I promise you won’t want to put it down!
Honestly I am keeping this review on the shorter side (for me) because of two main reasons: 1. I truly believe that the less you know about the direction this book takes, the better; and 2. I am honestly still processing all of the twists and turns and heart-pounding moments that make up this book. Do yourself a favor and add it to your list!
Cassie is driving home one dark and stormy night when she sees a woman and man on the side of the road fighting. When she tries to help, the man turns and issues one ominous threat “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
But that is only the beginning. While Cassie helps the woman, the man steals her car with her purse inside. And now he knows all about her. When her husband goes missing the next day while out trick or treating with their daughter, Cassie doesn’t know what to think. Was it the man who threatened her? Or did her husband Sam leave her finally after months of him growing more and more distant from her?
I’m not going to say much more, which honestly is frustrating because there is SO much more to this book than what I just captured. I think I can safely say that in the hours and days that follow Sam’s disappearance, things get more complicated. Cassie reports the disappearance to the police, who can’t do much since Sam is an adult. And then there are the text messages she gets from Sam confessing to leaving her. But is it really Sam texting her? As she tracks down clues, evidence seems to pile up. But the evidence is pointing directly towards her!
This is one of those books where—similar to Cassie—you just don’t always know what is real and what is faked. As two initial scenarios divide—that Sam left Cassie and that the man from the night before is after her family—I found myself questioning everything. And soon more scnearios will start to break off from those, until you are looking at so many possibilities as to make your head spin!
And trust me when I say you’ll meet some other characters and witnesses along the way. You’ll get to know more about Cassie’s marriage. You’ll find quick, short chapters that accelerate the pace. You’ll find webs of twists and turns that you can absolutely lose yourself in. And finally, you’ll have a whirlwind ending that you’ll think about days after. Truly a mind-bending thriller!
A word of advice going into this—just enjoy the ride! Don’t try to overthink it too much, don’t get too caught up in how realistic you find certain elements. And most importantly, don’t turn out the lights!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and William Morrow Books for my copy. Opinions are my own.
Honestly I am keeping this review on the shorter side (for me) because of two main reasons: 1. I truly believe that the less you know about the direction this book takes, the better; and 2. I am honestly still processing all of the twists and turns and heart-pounding moments that make up this book. Do yourself a favor and add it to your list!
Cassie is driving home one dark and stormy night when she sees a woman and man on the side of the road fighting. When she tries to help, the man turns and issues one ominous threat “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
But that is only the beginning. While Cassie helps the woman, the man steals her car with her purse inside. And now he knows all about her. When her husband goes missing the next day while out trick or treating with their daughter, Cassie doesn’t know what to think. Was it the man who threatened her? Or did her husband Sam leave her finally after months of him growing more and more distant from her?
I’m not going to say much more, which honestly is frustrating because there is SO much more to this book than what I just captured. I think I can safely say that in the hours and days that follow Sam’s disappearance, things get more complicated. Cassie reports the disappearance to the police, who can’t do much since Sam is an adult. And then there are the text messages she gets from Sam confessing to leaving her. But is it really Sam texting her? As she tracks down clues, evidence seems to pile up. But the evidence is pointing directly towards her!
This is one of those books where—similar to Cassie—you just don’t always know what is real and what is faked. As two initial scenarios divide—that Sam left Cassie and that the man from the night before is after her family—I found myself questioning everything. And soon more scnearios will start to break off from those, until you are looking at so many possibilities as to make your head spin!
And trust me when I say you’ll meet some other characters and witnesses along the way. You’ll get to know more about Cassie’s marriage. You’ll find quick, short chapters that accelerate the pace. You’ll find webs of twists and turns that you can absolutely lose yourself in. And finally, you’ll have a whirlwind ending that you’ll think about days after. Truly a mind-bending thriller!
A word of advice going into this—just enjoy the ride! Don’t try to overthink it too much, don’t get too caught up in how realistic you find certain elements. And most importantly, don’t turn out the lights!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and William Morrow Books for my copy. Opinions are my own.
February 9, 2020
After Cassie Larkin stops the ex-con Carver Sweet from assaulting a woman, he threatens Cassie and drives off in her car. The next night Cassie’s husband Sam disappears and Cassie is determined to get him back, even when faced with evidence that Sam was having an affair. The search for Sam turns into a full-on battle to protect their children Leo and Audrey. I am usually pretty hard on domestic thrillers like this because I find the plots stupid, predictable and lacking suspense. I didn’t have any of those problems with this book. It was so fast paced that I was excited to keep reading it. I was having such a good time that I even ignored giant holes in the plot and a pretty weak motive for all the mayhem. The book was a lot of fun to read. This was the author’s first book. I hope she doesn’t have a sophomore slump because I will definitely read what she writes next.
With respect to the plot holes I mentioned, those who have read the book may want to consider these questions .
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
With respect to the plot holes I mentioned, those who have read the book may want to consider these questions .
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
March 22, 2020
There were lots of twists and turns and eyebrow raising moments in this story. However, there were also quite a few eye rolling, pushed me into the unbelievable mode moments too!
They say there is nothing like a mother's love and the ends she will go to to protect and defend her offspring. In this tale, we meet Cassie Larkin, mother of two and wife to her handsome teacher husband. While driving home, Cassie comes across a man and a women fighting on the side of the road and decides to stop and try to help as the fight looked quite serious. Cassie then, becomes involved in a dilemma that not only threatens her life but also that of her family as well.
When her husband disappears mysteriously while escorting their youngest child on Halloween night trick or treating, the story takes on a scary aura for Cassie. Where is her husband and has he perhaps left her for another? Can Cassie find out the truth or has she unwittingly condemned her family to danger and possible death?
Thank you to Heather Chavez, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this family thriller due out on May 18, 2020.
They say there is nothing like a mother's love and the ends she will go to to protect and defend her offspring. In this tale, we meet Cassie Larkin, mother of two and wife to her handsome teacher husband. While driving home, Cassie comes across a man and a women fighting on the side of the road and decides to stop and try to help as the fight looked quite serious. Cassie then, becomes involved in a dilemma that not only threatens her life but also that of her family as well.
When her husband disappears mysteriously while escorting their youngest child on Halloween night trick or treating, the story takes on a scary aura for Cassie. Where is her husband and has he perhaps left her for another? Can Cassie find out the truth or has she unwittingly condemned her family to danger and possible death?
Thank you to Heather Chavez, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this family thriller due out on May 18, 2020.
March 2, 2020
“I read the message: If no good deed goes unpunished, the consequences of the bad ones should be even worse, don’t you agree? So it’s time to make a choice.”
Realistic, intense, fast-paced and so very twisted! Prepare yourself for a wild ride through this mind-blowing debut.
Cassie stops on the side of the road to help a woman in need...now her husband is missing. Coincidence? Or could the two events be connected?
The world can be such a messed up place at times, it’s hard to say when and if you should stop and help a stranger...especially if you’re a woman.
The plot was clever, original and full of action. And once the secrets and twists started popping up towards the end...OMG! I could not stop reading! Harlan Coben is one of my favorite authors, so when I saw him mentioned in the book blurb, I had to grab this one. Congrats to Ms. Chavez on her wonderful debut!
Thank you to NetGalley / Willam Morrow / Heather Chavez for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest review!
My Rating: 4.5 ⭐️’s (rounding up)
Published: February 18th 2020 by William Morrow
Pages: 320
Recommended: Yes!
#NetGalley #NoBadDeed
@iamHRChavez @WmMorrowBooks
My review can be found on: Goodreads, Twitter, Amazon, BN.com, Pinterest and BookBub.
Realistic, intense, fast-paced and so very twisted! Prepare yourself for a wild ride through this mind-blowing debut.
Cassie stops on the side of the road to help a woman in need...now her husband is missing. Coincidence? Or could the two events be connected?
The world can be such a messed up place at times, it’s hard to say when and if you should stop and help a stranger...especially if you’re a woman.
The plot was clever, original and full of action. And once the secrets and twists started popping up towards the end...OMG! I could not stop reading! Harlan Coben is one of my favorite authors, so when I saw him mentioned in the book blurb, I had to grab this one. Congrats to Ms. Chavez on her wonderful debut!
Thank you to NetGalley / Willam Morrow / Heather Chavez for this digital ARC, in exchange for my honest review!
My Rating: 4.5 ⭐️’s (rounding up)
Published: February 18th 2020 by William Morrow
Pages: 320
Recommended: Yes!
#NetGalley #NoBadDeed
@iamHRChavez @WmMorrowBooks
My review can be found on: Goodreads, Twitter, Amazon, BN.com, Pinterest and BookBub.
February 18, 2020
If you’re looking for your next pacey, entertaining and just downright fun thriller then look no further friends because NBD is it! I haven’t seen much about this one in the book world, which is a shame because in a sea of boring, predictable thrillers that all feel and sound the same this one is a standout. Huge thanks to my girl Chelsea @suspensethrill for putting this one on my radar, it was just the book I needed to restore my faith in thrillers once again!
I’m gonna keep this fairly short because A, it’s a thriller and the less you know the better, and B it went in several unexpected directions that surprised me and I want you to be surprised too! You may need to suspend disbelief a few times, but guys when a thriller is as fun and twisty as this one was, who minds letting things go a bit? Not me! It’s worth it, especially if you like a dark and addictive read
I’m gonna keep this fairly short because A, it’s a thriller and the less you know the better, and B it went in several unexpected directions that surprised me and I want you to be surprised too! You may need to suspend disbelief a few times, but guys when a thriller is as fun and twisty as this one was, who minds letting things go a bit? Not me! It’s worth it, especially if you like a dark and addictive read
January 27, 2020
4.5 thrilling stars!!
I am very impressed with No Bad Deed as being a debut suspense/thriller book. This was a fast-paced, heart pounding and an addictive reading experience for me. The story was so cleverly plotted that I could never figure out what was really going on and how the author will resolve the twisted line of events that she has weaved throughout the book. There was a lot of characters to follow and many events to keep track of, however in the end it was all worth it. I loved the ending, and yes, it was all a little far-fetched but this is what makes this book so gripping and exciting.
While reading this book I kept thinking about another book, or rather a series of books, the Stillhouse Lake series. The main character, Cassie, reminded me so much of Gwen Proctor, and her relentless quest to keep her children safe and sound. Cassie is a strong and resourceful character that will stop at nothing to keep her kids safe and get her husband back home alive. She quickly became my personal, fictional hero, even though I found her a little reckless and naive at times.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a fast-paced, action packed thriller that will keep the reader guessing till the final pages.
Thank you NetGalley, William Morrow publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I am very impressed with No Bad Deed as being a debut suspense/thriller book. This was a fast-paced, heart pounding and an addictive reading experience for me. The story was so cleverly plotted that I could never figure out what was really going on and how the author will resolve the twisted line of events that she has weaved throughout the book. There was a lot of characters to follow and many events to keep track of, however in the end it was all worth it. I loved the ending, and yes, it was all a little far-fetched but this is what makes this book so gripping and exciting.
While reading this book I kept thinking about another book, or rather a series of books, the Stillhouse Lake series. The main character, Cassie, reminded me so much of Gwen Proctor, and her relentless quest to keep her children safe and sound. Cassie is a strong and resourceful character that will stop at nothing to keep her kids safe and get her husband back home alive. She quickly became my personal, fictional hero, even though I found her a little reckless and naive at times.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a fast-paced, action packed thriller that will keep the reader guessing till the final pages.
Thank you NetGalley, William Morrow publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this one! Suspenseful and creepy, and it was just what I needed.
March 9, 2020
So...the positives are that this is a very fast-paced book. I read it in just a couple of hours. I was desperate to know what happened and things just kept getting worse and worse and worse. It was exciting and thrilling for the most part because I wanted to know what was really going on.
The negatives--the entire thing was just beyond my belief. So many things happened, and the police just seemed totally inept whereas the criminals kept doing more and more awful things that the police either didn't believe or were too lazy to investigate. The fact that Cassie GOT OUT OF THE CAR in the first chapter is just so unbelievable and stupid I almost stopped reading there and then. Who would do that you ask? NO ONE!
Overall there are some decent twists, but balanced with the unbelievable things that happened, this is just a solid three-star read for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
The negatives--the entire thing was just beyond my belief. So many things happened, and the police just seemed totally inept whereas the criminals kept doing more and more awful things that the police either didn't believe or were too lazy to investigate. The fact that Cassie GOT OUT OF THE CAR in the first chapter is just so unbelievable and stupid I almost stopped reading there and then. Who would do that you ask? NO ONE!
Overall there are some decent twists, but balanced with the unbelievable things that happened, this is just a solid three-star read for me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 24, 2019
I usually don’t like to describe books with a line of adjectives but I have to say that [No Bad Deed] is compelling…hypnotic… suspenseful and down right menacing. I don’t want to give anything away, but there a few times that the reader will have suspend their disbelief as sometimes Cassie’s reactions seem a bit off. What it will succeed in doing is to make the “Good Samaritan” in most all of us think that maybe next time you should let the next guy help. Overall it is a thriller that will delight all fans of this genre.
I received an advance copy of this book from William Morrow/Harper Collins Publishers, in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are entirely all my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from William Morrow/Harper Collins Publishers, in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are entirely all my own.
December 22, 2020
**Many thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and Heather Chavez for this ARC!**
No Bad Deed is the perfect example of a "wrong place, wrong time" scenario gone completely awry, as Cassie finds herself swept up in an attempted murder gone wrong on the side of the road. The premise and the first half of the book was intense, but at about that point, the book stopped feeling believable and by the end I was cringing a bit.
This is a book with tons of potential that basically got suffocated by too many characters and FAR too many plot threads. There were entire sections of the book that could've been omitted entirely without any consequence other than perhaps some much-needed clarity. When the story was focused on Cassie and questions about her potentially-cheating spouse, mysterious teenage son, and young daughter, I was invested. The minute everything got convoluted, all of that dramatic tension was abandoned to focus on the killer, but even that reveal didn't feel fulfilling.
I think this novel could've benefited from having some of these 'red herring' plot threads tossed and a stronger sense of focus on Cassie and the fears she had for her family. I'd definitely give the author another try, however, since I feel there was a lot of unrealized potential here.
No Bad Deed is the perfect example of a "wrong place, wrong time" scenario gone completely awry, as Cassie finds herself swept up in an attempted murder gone wrong on the side of the road. The premise and the first half of the book was intense, but at about that point, the book stopped feeling believable and by the end I was cringing a bit.
This is a book with tons of potential that basically got suffocated by too many characters and FAR too many plot threads. There were entire sections of the book that could've been omitted entirely without any consequence other than perhaps some much-needed clarity. When the story was focused on Cassie and questions about her potentially-cheating spouse, mysterious teenage son, and young daughter, I was invested. The minute everything got convoluted, all of that dramatic tension was abandoned to focus on the killer, but even that reveal didn't feel fulfilling.
I think this novel could've benefited from having some of these 'red herring' plot threads tossed and a stronger sense of focus on Cassie and the fears she had for her family. I'd definitely give the author another try, however, since I feel there was a lot of unrealized potential here.
July 10, 2020
It looks like this must be a debut novel by Heather Chavez so I’m actually leaning upward to four stars because this is a remarkable claustrophobic psychological thriller for a debut. The author managed to keep the tension going throughout. Although I only finished it after the third time it landed on my library shelf, once I invested more than 10% I remained glued to the book until I finished.
MC sees a man violently beating a woman and intervenes – getting her car stolen with telephone inside. Soon, her husband disappears, with no explanation and once she starts unraveling the mystery more and more things point to infidelity, secretive and uncharacteristic behavior. But nothing seems to add up. Soon it becomes clear that her family has been targeted and they are all in mortal danger. MC, rising to the occasion sets out to single-handedly protect her family, find her husband, and bring down her nemesis.
I had some reservations regarding the late introduction of a new suspect…I like clues to be invisibly present or visibly transparent from the start – like Search and Seek books or Find the Missing Object games. Also, characters with superhuman investigative abilities who tend to outshine the professionals leave me skeptic. The overall motive for the “why” felt a little contrived, but otherwise and altogether, this was an enjoyable, entertaining read. 3 1/2 rounded up to 4 stars.
MC sees a man violently beating a woman and intervenes – getting her car stolen with telephone inside. Soon, her husband disappears, with no explanation and once she starts unraveling the mystery more and more things point to infidelity, secretive and uncharacteristic behavior. But nothing seems to add up. Soon it becomes clear that her family has been targeted and they are all in mortal danger. MC, rising to the occasion sets out to single-handedly protect her family, find her husband, and bring down her nemesis.
I had some reservations regarding the late introduction of a new suspect…I like clues to be invisibly present or visibly transparent from the start – like Search and Seek books or Find the Missing Object games. Also, characters with superhuman investigative abilities who tend to outshine the professionals leave me skeptic. The overall motive for the “why” felt a little contrived, but otherwise and altogether, this was an enjoyable, entertaining read. 3 1/2 rounded up to 4 stars.
March 17, 2020
Really disappointed
February 18, 2020
4.5 STARS
Cassie is driving home one night and sees a man beating on a young woman by the side of the road. She makes the decision to get out of her car to stop the man from killing the woman. He pulls away but has an ominous threat for her .... “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
The next night.. which is Halloween night... Cassie's husband takes their two kids trick-or-treating. Hours later and they haven't returned. Cassie takes off and finds her young daughter in the care of two women that she doesn't know. But where did her husband go? Reaching home, she finds that her husband's car is gone. Looking at the surveillance tape, she sees a man opening the car door and leaving.
The man she sees is the man who was assaulting the woman by the side of the road.
And then the text messages start ... but she doesn't believe they are from her husband. Someone has been in her house ... the man or someone else? What do they want? And most importantly ... where is her husband?
This debut novel is full of suspense and surprises. The plot is nicely paced and this begs the question ..how far would you go to protect your family? The characters are deftly drawn and quite memorable.
Many thanks to the author / HarperCollins Publishers / William Morrow / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Cassie is driving home one night and sees a man beating on a young woman by the side of the road. She makes the decision to get out of her car to stop the man from killing the woman. He pulls away but has an ominous threat for her .... “Let her die, and I’ll let you live.”
The next night.. which is Halloween night... Cassie's husband takes their two kids trick-or-treating. Hours later and they haven't returned. Cassie takes off and finds her young daughter in the care of two women that she doesn't know. But where did her husband go? Reaching home, she finds that her husband's car is gone. Looking at the surveillance tape, she sees a man opening the car door and leaving.
The man she sees is the man who was assaulting the woman by the side of the road.
And then the text messages start ... but she doesn't believe they are from her husband. Someone has been in her house ... the man or someone else? What do they want? And most importantly ... where is her husband?
This debut novel is full of suspense and surprises. The plot is nicely paced and this begs the question ..how far would you go to protect your family? The characters are deftly drawn and quite memorable.
Many thanks to the author / HarperCollins Publishers / William Morrow / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
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